Medical City Healthcare | Take Care | Spring 2019

Considering a hysterectomy? Resolving conditions can improve quality of life A hysterectomy is a common surgery for women in the U.S. But do you know the basics of why you might need one? If not, here’s a primer. Your doctor may advise this surgery to re- move your uterus (womb) if you have: > > Fibroids. These noncancerous growths develop in the wall of the uterus. In some women, they can cause bleeding heavy enough to trigger anemia and pain in the abdomen or lower back. They’re the No. 1 reason for hysterectomies. > > Heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding. Changes in hormone levels, infection, cancer and fibroids can all bring on excessive or pro- longed bleeding. > > Uterine prolapse. This is when the uterus slips down into the vagina. It can lead to urinary and bowel problems and pelvic pressure. > > Endometriosis. Tissue that normally lines the uterus grows where it doesn’t belong: outside the uterus and on ovaries. This misplaced tissue can cause severe pain and bleeding between periods. > > Adenomyosis. An overgrowth of tissue lin- ing the walls of the uterus causes them to thicken, triggering severe pain and heavy bleeding. > > Cancerous tumors. This includes cancer of the uterus, endometrium (lining of the uterus), cervix or ovaries. Sources: American College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians; Office on Women's Health Robotic surgery for hysterectomy Robot-assisted surgery—in which a doctor uses a computer to control a robot’s arm during an operation—is now used for many procedures, including hysterectomy. A robotic hysterectomy involves small, precise movements through tiny incisions in the lower abdomen. Robotic hysterectomy may provide benefits compared to traditional surgery, including less blood loss and pain and a shorter hospital stay. HAVE YOU BEEN TOLD YOU WOULD BENEFIT FROM A HYSTERECTOMY? Ask your doctor if robotic surgery is an option. Find a specialist near you at 844-671-4204 . GYNECOLOGIC AND ROBOTIC EXCELLENCE Medical City Dallas ranks No. 14 among U.S. News and World Report ’s 50 best hospitals for gynecology care. The medical staff includes several designated epicenter surgeons who teach the latest robotic surgery techniques to other surgeons from around the country. Gynecology 13 MedicalCityHealthcare.com